Multivitamins for children?

Question

I bought a multivitamin formula for my daughter aged 9 on my doctor's advice. I have been reading the "supplements facts" on the bottle and have compared it to the RDI for children aged 4-12. Most of the vitamin / mineral concentrations in the formula are four or five times the RDI. For example the formula contains 250 mg vitamin C (4 times RDI), 120 IU vitamin E (4 times RDI), 135 mcg vitamin B12 (22 times RDI). Is this safe for a child??

Answer 1

I am not a doctor.

I have heard that vitamins should be taken according to body weight rather than age. If she weighs 90, she could take enough for an adult.

If a value is not established, they haven't found an unsafe range. They tried a huge amount and it still was safe.

I would say that your vitamins are safe. Check my source and look at the maximum values.

Answer 2

Hi Sara. First, I would like to congratulate you on taking the time to investigate your child's supplements. Too many of us just do what the doctor says without taking time to learn more.

The simple answer to your question is YES, these are safe doses. RDIs establish what scientists consider to be adequate levels of intake for most people (children in this case) who do not have any health issues. RDIs do not apply to anyone with poor health or a chronic disease; conditions that may require much higher doses. RDIs do not address toxicity issues. ULs (upper limits) or LOAELs (Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Levels) address risks for toxicity.

The levels of nutrients you list are no where near the ULs or LOAELs for these vitamins.

Vitamin C is safe at thousands of milligrams per day for most people. Vitamin E is safe at at least 800 IU (note: be sure the vitamin E is not the synthetic form, it should be d-alpha-tocopherol. If the bottle says "dl-alpha-tocopherol, that little 'l' means it is synthetic and this is NOT a good form to be taking). There is no known toxicity to B12, even with massive doses.

I hope you find this helpful. Best wishes and good luck.